Star Wars Jedi: Survivor is coming to Game Pass Ultimate and EA Play on April 25

The second installment in EA’s Star Wars Jedi series is coming to Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass and EA Play this week. Subscribers can continue Cal Kestis’ journey in Star Wars Jedi: Survivor on April 25, almost a year to the day after its debut. If you haven’t checked out the first steps of Cal’s adventure, it might be best to get started with Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, which is also available through those services.

Jedi: Survivor picks up five years after the events of the previous game, with Cal continuing his fight against the Empire. This time around, you have five lightsaber stances to make use of, while the maps are larger than in Jedi: Fallen Order (at least the sequel includes fast travel). While Jedi: Survivor was generally well-reviewed, the PC port had notoriously poor performance out of the gate — an issue that developer Respawn Entertainment has tried to remedy through updates.

A third game is in the works, but there will be a different figure in charge. Stig Asmussen, the director of the first two entries, left EA to set up his own studio.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/star-wars-jedi-survivor-is-coming-to-game-pass-ultimate-and-ea-play-on-april-25-181028179.html?src=rss

Zack Snyder on Using Jimmy, the Fan-Favorite Android Character in Rebel Moon

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Meta opens Quest OS to third parties, including ASUS and Lenovo

In a huge move for the mixed reality industry, Meta announced today that it’s opening the Quest’s operating system to third-party companies, allowing them to build headsets of their own. Think of it like moving the Quest’s ecosystem from an Apple model, where one company builds both the hardware and software, to more of a hardware free-for-all like Android. The Quest OS is being rebranded to “Meta Horizon OS,” and at this point it seems to have found two early adopters. ASUS’s Republic of Gamers (ROG) brand is working on a new “performance gaming” headsets, while Lenovo is working on devices for “productivity, learning and entertainment.” (Don’t forget, Lenovo also built the poorly-received Oculus Rift S.)

As part of the news, Meta says it’s also working on a limited-edition Xbox “inspired” Quest headset. (Microsoft and Meta also worked together recently to bring Xbox cloud gaming to the Quest.) Meta is also calling on Google to bring over the Google Play 2D app store to Meta Horizon OS. And, in an effort to bring more content to the Horizon ecosystem, software developed through the Quest App Lab will be featured in the Horizon Store. The company is also developing a new spatial framework to let mobile developers created mixed reality apps.

“Mixed reality is transforming how people interface with computers by integrating digital experiences and physical spaces to reach new levels of productivity, learning and play,” Lenovo Chair & CEO, Yuanqing Yang, said in a statement. “Building from our past successful partnership, Lenovo is bringing together Meta Horizon OS with our leadership and innovation in personal computing to accelerate adoption of new user scenarios in mixed reality like virtual screens, remote presence, content consumption, and immersive training.”

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/meta-opens-quest-os-to-third-parties-including-asus-and-lenovo-163127396.html?src=rss

Intel Statistics 2024 By Net Revenue, Business Unit, Processors, Geekbench Score Performance, Import and Export

Introduction

Intel Statistics: Intel is the 2nd leading brand in the semiconductor industry, starting from designing and manufacturing the tiny chips that power our computers, smartphones, and countless other devices. This brand is a household name synonymous with computer processing power. But how big is this tech giant, and what makes it tick? This Intel Statistics includes several analyses and current trends from different sources. Let’s dive into some interesting statistics to understand Intel’s impact on the world of technology.

Editor’s Choice

  • According to Intel’s statistics, Intel’s total revenue amounted to approximately $54.2 billion in 2023, which was reduced from $63.1 billion in 2022.
  • In the 1st quarter of 2024, it is expected that Intel’s revenue will be around $12.2 billion to $13.2 billion.
  • As of 2023, China had the highest revenue share, with $14.85 billion, and the United States had $13.96 billion.
  • The operating income accounted by Intel Company was $93 million in 2023, which has decreased from last year.
  • In the same year, the recorded net income was around $1.68 billion, a reduction from $8.02 billion Year over Year.
  • The expenditure on Intel research and development was $16.05 billion in 2023, down from $17.53 billion in 2022.
  • Intel Statistics further states that Intel’s expenditure on marketing, general, and other administrative activities has approximately crossed $5.6 billion.
  • The total value of Intel’s land and buildings resulted in $51.18 billion.
  • Global revenue generated by the Intel semiconductor market turned out to be $48.7 billion, along with a market share of 9.1%, by the end of 2023.
  • Intel is one of the global companies sharing its funding for the 2024 Olympic Games.
  • Intel is termed as the 14th most valued trademark across the world.

Here’s a deeper look at what makes Intel tick!

  • Innovation Powerhouse: Intel has a long history of innovation, pioneering advancements like the transistor and the microprocessor. Their relentless pursuit of faster, more efficient chips fuels the progress of the entire tech industry.
  • A Global Player: Intel has a global presence, employing more than 10,000 people worldwide. Their research facilities and manufacturing plants are spread across different continents.
  • Focus on Sustainability: As environmental concerns rise, Intel strives for sustainable practices. They’ve implemented programs to reduce energy consumption and waste in their manufacturing processes.

General Intel Statistics

  • In 2023, Intel held a significant share (around 68%) of the global x86 microprocessor market. x86 refers to a specific type of processor architecture used in most personal computers.
  • Intel operates numerous fabrication facilities (fabs) around the world, churning out billions of chips annually. These fabs are marvels of engineering, requiring immense resources and cutting-edge technology.
  • As of April 2024, Intel’s market capitalization is estimated to be around $200 billion.
  • In March 2024, the total number of website visits made on intel.com was 18.4 million, up 5.36% from last month, with a bounce rate of 51.7%.
  • On the other hand, intel.com’s desktop and mobile traffic share was 50.24% and 49.76%, respectively.

 

intel-s-guidance-for-the-first-quarter-of-2024-includes-both-gaap-and-non-gaap-estimates(Reference: intc.com)

  • Based on Intel Statistics analyses, the company’s predicted revenue gross margin in the first quarter of 2024 will be between $12.2 and $13.2 billion.
  • The GAAP and non-GAAP tax rates of the company are estimated to be 40.7% and 44.5%, respectively.
  • Earnings per share attributable to Intel segmented in GAAP and Non-GAAP are $0.25 and $0.13, respectively.

(Source: communicationstoday.co.in)

  • The above graph shows that Intel made 10% of its revenue share across the global semiconductors market in Q3 of 2023.
  • However, Nvidia secured the top position, holding a share of 11%.
  • Other semiconductors brand shares are Samsung (9%), Qualcomm (5%), Broadcom (5%), SK Hynix (5%), and ADM (4%).

product-security-report-graphic

(Source: businesswire.com)

  • The Intel product security report observed that in 2023, Companies’ proactive investments accounted for 94% of vulnerable disclosures, an increase from the previous four years, as shown in the graph above.

Intel Statistics by Net Revenue (from 1999 to 2023)

intel-net-revenue-from-1999-to-2023

(Reference: statista.com)

  • A report published by Statista claimed that Total Intel’s revenue gross margin in 2023 was $54.23 billion, which has decreased by 14% from last year.

intel-revenue-from-2008-to-2023-by-quarter.

(Reference: statista.com)

  • Intel Statistics further states that Intel’s net revenue was $11.72 billion in the first quarter of 2023.
  • Moreover, other quarterly revenue generated by Intel was in the 2nd quarter (412.95 billion), 3rd quarter ($14.16 billion), and 4th quarter ($15.41 billion).

By Net Income (from 2004 to 2023)

-intel-net-income-from-2004-to-2023

(Reference: statista.com)

  • Meanwhile, recorded net income (GAAP) was around $1.68 billion, with a reduction of 79% from last year.
  • On the other hand, non-GAAP net income attributable to Intel was $6.9 billion, down by 36% Year over Year.

Intel’s Other Financial Results

  • According to Intel Statistics, the overall GAAP operating Margin on R&D and MG&A in 2023 was $21.7 billion, along with a share of 40%, which has reduced by 12% YoY.
  • The non-GAAP operating margin on R&D and MG&A was $19 billion (-13%).
  • Similarly, the GAAP tax rate decreased by 3.5 points in 2023 and was holding a share of 0.2%, and it resulted in 8.6%, down by 4 points from 2022.
  • In 2023, GAAP earnings per share were $0.40 (-79%), and non-GAAP earnings per share were $1.05 (-37%).

Intel Statistics by Business Unit

(Reference: intc.com)

  • In the financial year 2023, Intel’s Client Computing Group captured the highest revenue of $29.3 billion, with an 8% YoY decrement, whereas in the 4th quarter, it was $8.8 billion (-33%).
  • Followed by the next units, Data Center and AI (DCAI), accounted for $15.5 billion in revenue in 2023 (-20%), and in the 4th quarter, it was $ 4 billion (-10%).
  • Furthermore, the revenue share of other Intel business units in 2023 and Q4 of 2023 is Network and Edge (NEX) ($5.8 billion and $1.5 billion), Mobileye ($2.1 billion and $637 million), and Intel Foundry Services ($952 million and $291 million), respectively.

Intel Diversity and Employee Statistics

(Source: techreport.com)

  • According to Intel Statistics 2024, around 72.2% of male employees and 27.8% of female employees currently work in the company.
  • The different segments of Intel, based on male and female employee share, are Technical (74.8% and 25.2%), Non-technical (42.1% and 57.9%), Non-Exempt (72.8% and 27.2%), Entry level (62.1% and 37.9%), Experienced (69.7% and 30.3%), Senior level (78.7% and 21.3%), Directors level (81.5% and 18.5%), and Executive level (78.9% and 21.1%), respectively.

Leading Semiconductor Companies of 2024

leading-semiconductor-companies-worldwide-in-2024-by-market-capitalization

(Reference: statista.com)

  • A report published by Statista on March 18, 2024, states that Intel ranks as the 8th largest semiconductor company worldwide, holding a market capitalization of $180.23 billion.
  • The leading semiconductor company is Nvidia, with a market cap of $2,204 billion.
  • Other semiconductor companies with a market cap of $714.45 billion are TSMC ($714.45 billion), Broadcom ($573.81 billion), ASML ($383.22 billion), Samsung ($364.73 billion), AMD ($308.7 billion), Qualcomm ($186.57 billion), Applied Materials ($166.53 billion), Texas Instruments ($156.17 billion), Arm Holdings ($133.47 billion), Lam Research ($121.55 billion), and Tokyo Electron ($114.12 billion).

Intel Statistics by Processors

  • Intel Statistics further states that in the 1st quarter of 2024, around 63% of x86 computer processor or CPU tests used Intel processors.
  • However, during the same period, Intel processors made up 75% of laptop central processing units, an increase from last quarter.

Leading Single-core Processors by Geekbench Score Performance

ranking-of-leading-single-core-processors-by-geekbench-score-performance-worldwide-as-of-march-2024

(Reference: statista.com)

  • As of March 2024, based on Geekbench Score Performance, the world’s leading single-core processor is the Intel Core i9-13900KS, with a score of 3,107.
  • Meanwhile, other leading single-core processors with scores are Intel Core i9-14900KF (3,106), Intel Core i9- 14900K (3,100), Intel Core i9- 14900F (2,992), Intel Core i7- 14700KF (2,981), Intel Core i9- 13900K (2,975), Intel Core i9- 13900KF (2,971), Intel Core i9- 14900 (2,962), and Intel Core i9- 14700K (2,942).

Leading Multi-core Processors by Geekbench Score Performance

-ranking-of-leading-multi-core-processors-by-geekbench-score-performance-worldwide-as-of-march-2024

(Reference: statista.com)

  • A report generated by Statista on Intel Statistics in March 2024 explained that the top-leading multi-core processor is Intel XenonPlatium 8462Y+, with a 22,271 Geekbench score.
  • However, other leading Multi-core processors of Intel with scores are Intel Core i9- 13900KS (21,851), Intel Core i9- 14900K (21,013), Intel Core i9- 14900KF (21,008), Intel Core i9- 13900K (21,163), Intel Core i9-13900KF (20,072), Intel Core i7- 14700KF (19,343), and Intel Core i7- 14700K (19,295).
  • Others are followed by AMD EPYC 9554 (20,643 score) and AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D (19,619 score).

Intel Website Traffic by Country

intel.com-Web-Traffic-by-Country.

(Source: similarweb.com)

  • Intel Statistics further explains that the United States had covered the highest website traffic on intel.com, resulting in a 23.54% share, which increased by 5.42% in total website visitors in March 2024.
  • In addition, other countries total website traffic shares are India: 7.2% (+9.11%), China: 6.34% (+7.35%), Poland: 3.29% (+5.39%), and the United Kingdom: 3.11% (+11.9%)
  • Moreover, on intel.com, the rest of the countries collectively made a visitor share of 56.51%.

By Device

-intel-com-website-traffic-by-country

(Reference: semrush.com)

  • Intel Statistics further reveals that intel.com’s desktop and mobile traffic share of intel.com in March 2024 was 50.24% and 49.76%, respectively.
  • In the United States of America, intel.com’s total user share was 34.92%, resulting in 12.6 million users, of which desktop and mobile users accounted for 53.81% and 46.19%, respectively.
  • India has recorded 4.17 million website users, with a traffic share of 11.57%. Meanwhile, desktop and mobile users comprised 35.51% and 62.49%, respectively.
  • The rest of the countries followed by website users are Brazil (1.57 million and 4.36%), the United Kingdom (1.32 million and 3.66%), and Indonesia (947.25K and 2.63%), respectively.
  • The desktop and mobile user shares are Brazil (2.48% and 76.52%), the United Kingdom (47.2% and 52.8%), and Indonesia (24.5% and 75.5%), respectively.

By Demographics

-intel-com-website-traffic-demographics

(Reference: similarweb.com)

  • Male and female users on intel.com were 71.78% and 28.22%, respectively.
  • In March 2024, Intel statistics based on age group, the highest number of website users observed is between 25 and 34 years, making 3.83% share.
  • On the other hand, 26.53% of the website users were between 18 and 24 years old.
  • The other users’ shares, followed by 19.3% and 11.24%, belong to 35 to 44 years and 45 to 54 years, respectively.
  • Approximately 5.55% of intel.com users are between 55 to 64 years old.
  • Sixty-five years and above-aged users contribute a smaller share of 3.56%.

By Traffic Sources

-intel-com-top-traffic-sources.

(Reference: similarweb.com)

  • From the point of view of Intel Statistics, Direct searches received the highest traffic rate towards intel.com with a share of 46.49%.
  • Organic search is the next most popular traffic source, with a 45.92% share, followed by referrals, with a 3.57% share.
  • Other traffic source shares included social (2.91%), mail (0.61%), paid search (0.41%), and display (0.09%).

By Social Media Referral Rate

social-media-traffic-to-intel-com

(Reference: similarweb.com)

  • LinkedIn accounted for the highest social media traffic rate, with a share of 45.1% on intel.com.
  • YouTube and Reddit hold a traffic share of 28.26% and 17.41%, respectively.
  • Social media traffic sharers are followed by Twitter (2.65%) and Facebook (2.2%).
  • Other social media traffic rates collectively made a share of 4.39%.

Intel Statistics by Processors Import and Export

  • As per a report published by Volza, the worldwide shipment of Intel’s processors was around 68.6K, which were imported by 6,033 global buyers and exported by 5,810 suppliers.
  • In December 2023, the importer countries of Intel’s processor were Vietnam (32,201 shipments), India (13,179 shipments), and Peru (10,331 shipments).
  • The top 3 import product categories are HSN Code 85423100, HSN Code 8542310000, and HSN Code 84733010.
  • Vietnam (19,296 shipments), China (17,709 shipments), and Malaysia (9,714 shipments) were the exporting countries.
  • The top 3 export product categories were HSN Code 85423100, HSN Code 84733010, and HSN Code 8542310000.
  • Intel Statistics also states that global buyer’s shipments of Intel processor were Vietnam (2659), India (824), Philippines (357), Pakistan (289), Peru (177), United States (140), Uzbekistan (139), Russia (135), Ukraine (127), Ecuador (100), Hong Kong (85), and Indonesia (70).
  • The countries that supplied Intel Processors were Vietnam (1266), China (1220), the United States (468), Malaysia (463), Taiwan (233), India (232), Singapore (184), Hong Kong (83), Germany (79), Japan (67), South Korea (62), Costa Rica (61), and the United Kingdom (55).

The Future of Intel

The tech landscape is ever-changing, and Intel needs to adapt to stay ahead. Here are some potential future directions:

  • The AI Revolution: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming various industries. Intel is developing specialized AI chips to cater to this growing demand.
  • The Rise of the Data Center: As the amount of data we generate explodes, data centers need ever-increasing processing power. Intel is poised to play a major role in this segment.
  • Beyond PCs: While PCs remain crucial, Intel is venturing into new territories like self-driving cars and the Internet of Things (IoT), where powerful and efficient chips are essential.

Challenges and Competition

Despite its dominance, Intel faces some challenges:

  • Competition: AMD, another chipmaker, is a growing competitor, particularly in the high-performance PC market. Intel needs to constantly innovate and improve its offerings to maintain its leading position.
  • Shifting Market Trends: The rise of smartphones and tablets presents a different computing landscape. Intel needs to adapt its chip designs to accommodate these mobile devices effectively.
  • Manufacturing Challenges: Building ever-smaller and more powerful chips requires immense technological expertise. Maintaining a manufacturing edge and overcoming these challenges is crucial for Intel’s future.

Conclusion

Intel is a tech titan wielding immense power in the semiconductor industry. Their relentless innovation, financial strength, and global reach position them well for continued success. However, the company is navigating a competitive landscape by adapting to new trends, and overcoming manufacturing challenges will be crucial for Intel to solidify its dominance in the ever-evolving world of technology. If you are considering investing in the Intel market in 2024, this article on Intel Statistics will benefit you.

Staggering Quantities of Valuable Metals Are Winding Up in the Garbage Bin

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Some Amazon and Max cartoons may have been partially animated in North Korea

North Korean animators may have helped create popular cartoons for Amazon Prime Video, Max and other streaming services. Researchers from the Washington-based 38 North project allegedly discovered a misconfigured cloud server on a North Korean IP address that contained thousands of animation files, as reported by Wired. US sanctions prohibit commercial activity with North Korean entities, due to human rights abuses and the advancement of its nuclear weapons program. 

The server included animation cells, videos and notes discussing the work, in addition to requested changes. Some images appear to be from the popular Prime Video superhero show Invincible and others from an upcoming Max children’s anime called Iyanu: Child of Wonder. The data, which was analyzed in part by the Google-owned security firm Mandiant, provides a glimpse into how North Korea likely skirts sanctions.

The researchers were able to analyze incoming connections to the server and noted access from three Chinese cities, suggesting front companies of some kind. “All three cities are known to have many North Korean–operated businesses and are main centers for North Korea’s IT workers who live overseas,” the report indicates.

Michael Barnhart, who works at Mandiant, said there was nothing in the research to indicate that Max, Amazon or any subsidiaries knew that the work was being handled by North Korean animators. It was likely subcontracted without their knowledge, as reported by Reuters. Barnhart has “high confidence” that the contracts were with Chinese companies who outsourced to animators who work on North Korea’s behalf.

In 2022, the FBI and the US Treasury issued an advisory to warn businesses about the risks of inadvertently hiring North Korean tech workers through this kind of outsourcing. A spokesperson for the US Treasury told Reuters that it has no comment on this particular allegation, but noted that North Korea’s efforts to generate revenue for its weapons programs through abuses of the subcontracting system was an ongoing concern.

Amazon has directed inquiries to Skybound, the company behind Invincible. It says it has no knowledge of any North Korean entities working on its animation projects but has initiated an internal review to verify and rectify lingering issues. “We have also notified the proper authorities and are cooperating with all appropriate bodies,” the Skybound’s head of corporate communications Hannah Cosgrove said. Max has not responded to requests for comment.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/some-amazon-and-max-cartoons-may-have-been-partially-animated-in-north-korea-160036603.html?src=rss

Some Amazon and Max cartoons may have been partially animated in North Korea

North Korean animators may have helped create popular cartoons for Amazon Prime Video, Max and other streaming services. Researchers from the Washington-based 38 North project allegedly discovered a misconfigured cloud server on a North Korean IP address that contained thousands of animation files, as reported by Wired. US sanctions prohibit commercial activity with North Korean entities, due to human rights abuses and the advancement of its nuclear weapons program. 

The server included animation cells, videos and notes discussing the work, in addition to requested changes. Some images appear to be from the popular Prime Video superhero show Invincible and others from an upcoming Max children’s anime called Iyanu: Child of Wonder. The data, which was analyzed in part by the Google-owned security firm Mandiant, provides a glimpse into how North Korea likely skirts sanctions.

The researchers were able to analyze incoming connections to the server and noted access from three Chinese cities, suggesting front companies of some kind. “All three cities are known to have many North Korean–operated businesses and are main centers for North Korea’s IT workers who live overseas,” the report indicates.

Michael Barnhart, who works at Mandiant, said there was nothing in the research to indicate that Max, Amazon or any subsidiaries knew that the work was being handled by North Korean animators. It was likely subcontracted without their knowledge, as reported by Reuters. Barnhart has “high confidence” that the contracts were with Chinese companies who outsourced to animators who work on North Korea’s behalf.

In 2022, the FBI and the US Treasury issued an advisory to warn businesses about the risks of inadvertently hiring North Korean tech workers through this kind of outsourcing. A spokesperson for the US Treasury told Reuters that it has no comment on this particular allegation, but noted that North Korea’s efforts to generate revenue for its weapons programs through abuses of the subcontracting system was an ongoing concern.

Amazon has directed inquiries to Skybound, the company behind Invincible. It says it has no knowledge of any North Korean entities working on its animation projects but has initiated an internal review to verify and rectify lingering issues. “We have also notified the proper authorities and are cooperating with all appropriate bodies,” the Skybound’s head of corporate communications Hannah Cosgrove said. Max has not responded to requests for comment.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/some-amazon-and-max-cartoons-may-have-been-partially-animated-in-north-korea-160036603.html?src=rss

What we watched: Bluey’s joyful finales

It’s never good to recommend a comedy by saying it makes you weep, but somehow Bluey, a comedy for kids, feels more real and more truthful than anything else on TV. I see so much of myself in Bandit’s triumphs and failures as he tries to parent his two daughters. I nod along to all of his unsuccessful parenting tactics that, I’ll admit, I’ve also tried on my own two kids. And then, at the end of so many episodes, I’ll realize that the front of my t-shirt is wet with tears because I’ve been crying.

There can’t be many people unfamiliar with Bluey, the biggest kids’ TV series on the planet, if not the biggest series overall. Each seven-minute episode is a slice-of-life sitcom about the Heelers, a family of anthropomorphic dogs living in Brisbane, Australia. Bluey and her younger sister Bingo live with parents Bandit and Chilli. The show started out focused on the playtimes the kids would have with each other or their parents. But it quickly sprawled out to create a rich world in the vein of The Simpsons, with a whole city’s worth of storylines. It can now regularly relegate the Heelers to the background to focus on the show’s deep cast of characters.

It closed out its third season with last Sunday’s “The Sign,” a (comparatively) epic 28-minute episode and this week with “Surprise,” a sweet little postscript. The former’s long running time was described as a dry-run for any potential Bluey movie, wrapping up a number of the show’s storylines. It focuses on a wedding taking place at the Heeler’s home in the shadow of the family’s plan to relocate to another city. I won’t spoil too much beyond saying “The Sign” is a story about the bigness of change and how that affects parents and kids alike. Much of it focused on Bandit’s decision to move for a better-paid job and the way that impacted Chilli and the two girls. It’s a complicated issue, especially because it highlights that parents often just want to do what’s best for the kids.

This is a screencap from 'Ghostbasket' but there was no way I was going to pass up an opportunity to post a picture of Bluey and Bingo as their granny characters.
Ludo Studio

“Surprise,” meanwhile, focuses more on the mundane struggle of Bandit trying to play two different games with his daughters at the same time. Much as Bluey wants to be just seven minutes of silly fun, it can’t quite help but be honest about the emotional and physical labor of parenting. All Bandit wants to do is sit down and watch sport on the TV but his daughters won’t allow him that luxury. He’s chased around the house, forced to pretend to teach a tennis ball to ride a bike and then pelted with ping pong balls fired from a toy launcher. (Bluey’s happy to highlight how often Bandit will get hit in the groin as a consequence of whatever game the girls are playing.)

The payoff to all of that effort comes in the final half minute of the episode, which is when I started sobbing. As much as it may be pitched as a palate cleanser after the scale and emotional heft of the previous episode, the final moments offer a real (if pleasant) punch to the gut. I can’t help but feel plenty of parallels in Bluey’s life and that of my own (similarly-aged) daughter, and feel a lot of kinship with Bandit as well. If I’m one one-hundredth as good a parent as this silly cartoon dog who often gets it wrong, then I’ll feel like I’ve done a good job.

There’s been speculation that this third season may be the end for Bluey. Bloomberg reported the uncertainty around creator Joe Brumm’s future with the show, although producer Sam Moor has said it will continue in some form. Any delay would also risk that the child actors – who remain anonymous for their own safety — will age out of being able to play their roles. But in many ways, Bluey can’t not continue given the show is now a multi-billion dollar cash cow for the BBC, which owns a big chunk of the show’s rights.

I don’t want to say goodbye to Bluey and the Heelers, and I’d prefer they kept the cast as-is and let them grow up alongside Bandit and Chilli. That, to me, would be an honest thing to do, rather than indulging in the fakery that dogs so many TV shows which face this problem. But if they have to go, I’ll choose to remember Bluey’s three perfect seasons through the highs and lows of parenting.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/what-we-watched-blueys-joyful-finales-161527282.html?src=rss

What we watched: Bluey’s joyful finales

It’s never good to recommend a comedy by saying it makes you weep, but somehow Bluey, a comedy for kids, feels more real and more truthful than anything else on TV. I see so much of myself in Bandit’s triumphs and failures as he tries to parent his two daughters. I nod along to all of his unsuccessful parenting tactics that, I’ll admit, I’ve also tried on my own two kids. And then, at the end of so many episodes, I’ll realize that the front of my t-shirt is wet with tears because I’ve been crying.

There can’t be many people unfamiliar with Bluey, the biggest kids’ TV series on the planet, if not the biggest series overall. Each seven-minute episode is a slice-of-life sitcom about the Heelers, a family of anthropomorphic dogs living in Brisbane, Australia. Bluey and her younger sister Bingo live with parents Bandit and Chilli. The show started out focused on the playtimes the kids would have with each other or their parents. But it quickly sprawled out to create a rich world in the vein of The Simpsons, with a whole city’s worth of storylines. It can now regularly relegate the Heelers to the background to focus on the show’s deep cast of characters.

It closed out its third season with last Sunday’s “The Sign,” a (comparatively) epic 28-minute episode and this week with “Surprise,” a sweet little postscript. The former’s long running time was described as a dry-run for any potential Bluey movie, wrapping up a number of the show’s storylines. It focuses on a wedding taking place at the Heeler’s home in the shadow of the family’s plan to relocate to another city. I won’t spoil too much beyond saying “The Sign” is a story about the bigness of change and how that affects parents and kids alike. Much of it focused on Bandit’s decision to move for a better-paid job and the way that impacted Chilli and the two girls. It’s a complicated issue, especially because it highlights that parents often just want to do what’s best for the kids.

This is a screencap from 'Ghostbasket' but there was no way I was going to pass up an opportunity to post a picture of Bluey and Bingo as their granny characters.
Ludo Studio

“Surprise,” meanwhile, focuses more on the mundane struggle of Bandit trying to play two different games with his daughters at the same time. Much as Bluey wants to be just seven minutes of silly fun, it can’t quite help but be honest about the emotional and physical labor of parenting. All Bandit wants to do is sit down and watch sport on the TV but his daughters won’t allow him that luxury. He’s chased around the house, forced to pretend to teach a tennis ball to ride a bike and then pelted with ping pong balls fired from a toy launcher. (Bluey’s happy to highlight how often Bandit will get hit in the groin as a consequence of whatever game the girls are playing.)

The payoff to all of that effort comes in the final half minute of the episode, which is when I started sobbing. As much as it may be pitched as a palate cleanser after the scale and emotional heft of the previous episode, the final moments offer a real (if pleasant) punch to the gut. I can’t help but feel plenty of parallels in Bluey’s life and that of my own (similarly-aged) daughter, and feel a lot of kinship with Bandit as well. If I’m one one-hundredth as good a parent as this silly cartoon dog who often gets it wrong, then I’ll feel like I’ve done a good job.

There’s been speculation that this third season may be the end for Bluey. Bloomberg reported the uncertainty around creator Joe Brumm’s future with the show, although producer Sam Moor has said it will continue in some form. Any delay would also risk that the child actors – who remain anonymous for their own safety — will age out of being able to play their roles. But in many ways, Bluey can’t not continue given the show is now a multi-billion dollar cash cow for the BBC, which owns a big chunk of the show’s rights.

I don’t want to say goodbye to Bluey and the Heelers, and I’d prefer they kept the cast as-is and let them grow up alongside Bandit and Chilli. That, to me, would be an honest thing to do, rather than indulging in the fakery that dogs so many TV shows which face this problem. But if they have to go, I’ll choose to remember Bluey’s three perfect seasons through the highs and lows of parenting.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/what-we-watched-blueys-joyful-finales-161527282.html?src=rss

5G And Beyond Facts 2024

Introduction

5G And Beyond Facts: With the rise in digital life and the Internet of Things term, 5G technology is bringing changes to the unimaged world. Just a decade ago, downloading a small file from the internet used to take hours, but now, it requires only a few minutes. Moreover, the increase in digital creators and gamers on various monetization-based platforms is the leading factor that is driving the demand for the same.

Recently, 5G has been launched across many countries. And it has been proven to be a boon to society. However, 5G and Beyond Facts show that there is a lot to happen in the near future. Internet speed won’t be limited to 5G but will reach more than that. 

Editor’s Choice

  • According to a report, The 5G Industry Report 2024 by StartUs Insights Discovery Platform, in 2023, the 5G industry experienced 9.98% in industry expansion.
  • 5G and Beyond Facts show that, in 2023, there were 419 base stations per 100,000 inhabitants, the highest number in South Korea. 
  • UHD video (4K and 8K) on mobile devices is the most popular 5G application among customers, as shown by 5G and Beyond Facts. 
  • The global penetration rate of 5G smartphones is expected to reach 82.5% between 2020 and 2027. Furthermore, around 59% of 5G smartphone mobile devices were shipped in 657.6 million.
  • According to 5G and Beyond Facts, Asia Pacific is projected to have the highest percentage of 5G broadband connections by 2025.
  • By 2034, around $2.2 trillion is projected to be contributed by 5G technology in the worldwide economic output. 
  • Around 70% of companies say that 5G will bring important technological developments to businesses within the next five years. 
  • Using 5G, gamers will be able to use AR on their smartphones without the need for additional devices. 
  • According to 5G and Beyond Facts, the 5G technology market is projected to reach a value of 667.79 billion by 2026. 
  • As of 2023, South Korea had the highest average 5G download speed, 432.5 Mbps. Other countries in similar segments were Singapore, Brazil, Malaysia, Qatar, and India, contributing 376.8, 346.4, 322.7, 312, and 301.6 Mbps each.

General 5G And Beyond Facts

  • According to a report, The 5G Industry Report 2024 by StartUs Insights Discovery Platform, in 2023, the 5G industry experienced 9.98% in industry expansion.
  • Furthermore, due to 5G enablement, around 1.3 million workforces were added. 
  • 5G and Beyond Facts show that the USA, India, Germany, China, and the UK are the key hubs in the 5G industry.
  • The Asia Pacific market is expected to reach $395.4 billion by 2028, with a CAGR of 56.4%.
  • In addition, by the forecasted year, then 80% of the mobile data traffic will come from video content viewers. 
  • According to 5G and Beyond Facts, the 5G technology market is projected to reach a value of 667.79 billion by 2026. 
  • By 2030, the worldwide 5G market penetration is projected to reach 64%.
  • By 2024, more than 1.5 billion individuals will have access to 5G networks.
  • In addition, in the current year, at least 65% of the worldwide population is expected to be consumers of 5 G networks.
  • 5G and Beyond Facts predicts that, by the end of 2024, the total amount of internet used by the worldwide population will reach 131 exabytes (EB) per month.
  • Furthermore, by the end of 2024, 40% of the mobile subscriptions will be using 5G.
  • Using 5G, gamers will be able to use AR on their smartphones without the need for additional devices. 
  • According to 5G and Beyond Facts, Asia Pacific is projected to have the highest percentage of 5G broadband connections by 2025.
  • Furthermore, around 70% of companies say that 5G will bring important technological developments to businesses within the next five years. 
  • By 2034, around $2.2 trillion is projected to be contributed by 5G technology in the worldwide economic output. 
  • It is projected that 5G technology will increase the worldwide GDP by more than $1.3 trillion within the next ten years.

Number Of 5G Stations Per 1,000 Inhabitants In Selected Countries

Number Of 5G Base Stations Per 100,000 Inhabitants In Selected Countries Worldwide In 2023(Reference: statista.com)

5G and Beyond Facts show that, in 2023, there were 419 base stations per 100,000 inhabitants, the highest number in South Korea. It was followed by China, Japan, the European Union, and the United States respectively.

Average 5G Download Speed In Leading Nations

Average 5G Download Speed In Leading Nations In 2023(Reference: statista.com)

As of 2023, South Korea had the highest average 5G download speed, 432.5 Mbps. Other countries in similar segments were Singapore, Brazil, Malaysia, Qatar, and India, contributing 376.8, 346.4, 322.7, 312, and 301.6 Mbps each. 

Worldwide 5G IoT Unit Sales 2030, By Segment

5G Internet Of Things (IoT) Unit Sales Worldwide In 2030, By Segment(Reference: statista.com)

According to 5G and Beyond Facts, by 2030, the worldwide Internet of Things unit sales are estimated to have the majority of the share in the Industry 4.0 segment, with 22.3 million units. Furthermore, Smart City, Smart Energy, connected offices, smart security, connected health, and other segments will contribute collectively 22.2 million units, which is still less than Industry 4.0.

Number Of 5G Devices By Type

Number Of 5G Devices As Of March 2023, By Type Of Device(Reference: statista.com)

5G and Beyond Facts show that mobile devices were the top device models with the most number of 5 G-enabled devices in 2023, resulting in 989. However, other types of devices are either available or are coming soon, including modules, fixed wireless access customer premises equipment, industrial/ enterprise/routers/gateways, modems, etc. All of these together are expected to make more than 1,000 devices.

Demanding Existing 5G Applications For Consumers

Most Exciting 5G Applications For Consumers(Reference: financesonline.com)

UHD video (4K and 8K) on mobile devices is the most popular 5G application among customers, as shown by 5G and Beyond Facts. VR entertainment applications, watching movies/videos in 3D, AR entertainment applications, and others are also demanding 5G applications, with less than 50% of the share each.

5G Enabled Smartphone Market Penetration Rate

Penetration Rate Of 5G Smartphones Worldwide From 2020 To 2027(Reference: statista.com)

Between 2020 and 2027, the global penetration rate of 5G smartphones is expected to reach 82.5%. Furthermore, around 59% of 5G smartphone mobile devices were shipped in 657.6 million. As of today, the penetration rate stands at 68%.

The Volume Of 5G Smartphone Shipments Worldwide Between 2020 And 2027

YearShipments in Millions
2020238.8
2021545.8
2022629.2
2023657.6
2024780.7
2025883.5
2026980.3
20271,031.8

(Source: statista.com)

5G and Beyond Facts estimate that the number of worldwide 5G smartphone shipments will reach more than 1,000 million. Currently, the estimated shipments globally stand at 780.7 million. Overall, the estimates show that the number will increase year-on-year.

Unveiling The Next Generation: A Deep Dive Into 5G Technology

The world of mobile technology is on the cusp of a revolution. 4G, the current standard for mobile data, has served us well, enabling activities like streaming high-definition videos and video calling. But as our reliance on mobile data grows – fueled by social media, cloud storage, and ever-more sophisticated applications – 4G is starting to show its limitations. Enter 5G, the next generation of mobile network technology, promising to transform the way we connect and interact with the world around us.

Beyond Speed: Unveiling The Core Differences Between 4G And 5G

Imagine a highway. On a typical day, a four-lane highway (think 4G) can handle traffic flow efficiently. But during rush hour, things can slow down considerably. 5G is like a ten-lane highway. Not only can it handle a much higher volume of traffic (data) at blazing speeds, but it also boasts several other advantages:

  • Speed: The most talked-about difference is speed. 5G has the potential to reach speeds up to 100 times faster than 4G. This translates to near-instantaneous downloads, smoother streaming, and a more responsive overall experience. Imagine downloading a full-length movie in seconds or experiencing lag-free virtual reality gaming on your phone – that’s the power of 5G.
  • Latency: Latency refers to the time it takes for data to travel between two points. While 4G offers decent latency, 5G boasts significantly lower latency, measured in milliseconds rather than seconds. This is crucial for real-time applications like remote surgery, where even a slight delay can have significant consequences.
  • Capacity: With the ever-increasing number of connected devices (phones, laptops, smart appliances), 4G networks are becoming strained. 5G offers a much higher capacity, meaning it can handle a massive number of simultaneous connections without compromising on speed or performance. This paves the way for the Internet of Things (IoT), where billions of devices will be seamlessly interconnected.

The Driving Force Behind 5G: Why Now?

The development of 5G isn’t just about bragging rights for faster downloads. Several key factors are fueling the push for this next-generation technology:

  • The Data Deluge: Our data consumption is skyrocketing. Social media usage, cloud storage adoption, and the increasing sophistication of mobile applications are all pushing the limits of 4G networks. 5G is essential to keep up with this ever-growing demand.
  • The Internet of Things (IoT) Revolution: Billions of devices, from smart thermostats and refrigerators to self-driving cars and industrial robots, are poised to join the internet. 5G’s ability to handle a massive number of connections with low latency is crucial for the smooth functioning of this interconnected future.
  • Emerging Technologies: Technologies like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) require high-speed, low-latency connections to function properly. 5G provides the foundation for these immersive experiences to become mainstream.

A World Transformed: How 5G Will Impact Different Sectors

The impact of 5G will extend far beyond faster downloads and smoother streaming. Here’s a glimpse of how 5G will reshape various sectors:

  • Communication: Imagine crystal-clear video calls without any buffering or lag. 5G can revolutionise how we connect, enabling real-time collaboration and seamless communication across vast distances.
  • Entertainment: Streaming high-resolution movies and games will be a breeze, and VR experiences will become more immersive and realistic. Imagine exploring virtual worlds or attending live concerts from the comfort of your living room, all facilitated by 5G’s high speeds and low latency.
  • Healthcare: Remote surgeries performed by robots with minimal lag and real-time data exchange between medical devices and healthcare professionals are just a glimpse of the possibilities. 5G can revolutionise healthcare delivery, particularly in remote areas.
  • Transportation: Connected cars with faster reaction times and improved traffic management systems can lead to safer and more efficient transportation. Imagine autonomous vehicles navigating roads with seamless communication and real-time data exchange, all powered by 5G.
  • Manufacturing: Smart factories with interconnected machines and real-time data analysis can optimize production processes, boost efficiency, and minimize downtime. 5G can pave the way for a more automated and data-driven future in manufacturing.

Challenges On The Road: Hurdles To 5G Adoption

Despite its immense potential, 5G adoption faces some significant hurdles:

  • Infrastructure Costs: Building and maintaining a robust 5G network requires significant investment in new towers, equipment, and fiber optic cables. This can be a major challenge for countries with limited resources.
  • Device Compatibility: Not all …current devices are equipped to handle 5G. Consumers will need to upgrade their phones, tablets, and other gadgets to experience the full benefits of the new network. This can create a temporary disconnect between those who can afford the upgrade and those who cannot.
  • Limited Coverage: 5G networks are still under development, and widespread coverage may take time to achieve. This means that even with a 5G-enabled device, users might need help to experience the full potential of the technology everywhere they go.

Before You Jump On The 5G Bandwagon: Considerations For Adoption

Countries and mobile operators need to carefully consider these factors before embracing 5G:

  • Cost-Benefit Analysis: Evaluating the economic benefits of 5G investment compared to the upfront costs is crucial. While the long-term benefits are promising, the initial investment can be substantial.
  • Spectrum Allocation: Governments need to allocate appropriate radio frequencies for 5G deployment. These radio frequencies are a valuable resource, and effective allocation is essential for ensuring optimal network performance.
  • Regulatory Framework: Establishing clear regulations to ensure fair competition and network security is essential. This includes regulations regarding data privacy, network neutrality, and cybersecurity measures.

Gearing Up For The Future: Devices Needed For 5G

To experience the true power of 5G, you’ll need a 5G-enabled device. These devices will have special hardware components, including antennas and processors, designed to handle the higher frequencies and advanced functionalities of the 5G network. Here’s a breakdown of the key components:

  • 5G Modem: This is the heart of a 5G device responsible for communicating with the 5G network. It translates data between the device and the network, ensuring seamless connectivity.
  • Antennas: 5G networks utilise higher frequencies compared to 4G. 5G-enabled devices will have specialised antennas designed to transmit and receive these higher-frequency signals effectively.
  • Processors: A device’s processing power plays a crucial role in its ability to handle the demands of a 5G network. 5G devices will require powerful processors to handle the increased data flow and complex functionalities.

The Road Ahead: A Future Powered By 5G

The future of mobile connectivity is undoubtedly 5G. While challenges exist, the potential for innovation and transformation across various sectors is undeniable. As 5G technology continues to develop and become more accessible, we can expect a world with faster, more reliable, and more connected experiences. From revolutionising communication and entertainment to transforming healthcare, transportation, and manufacturing, 5G promises to usher in a new era of connectivity and innovation. The journey towards a 5G-powered future has begun, and it’s an exciting one to watch unfold.

Conclusion

2023 and 2024 have proven to be the era of most developed technologies, as many ways of such advancements were opened to the public. Starting from 5G to Apple Vision Pro, everything feels to be living in the future. The term “living in the future” is not just limited to movies but is now applicable in real-life situations. With the lightning speed of 5G, people are now able to stream movies and other high-quality content; gamers can play games without any interruptions. Not only this but downloading a high GB file within seconds is now possible. There is a lot to 5G and Beyond Facts, as this is just the beginning.